HC Deb 18 November 1953 vol 520 cc1715-6
19. Mr. Shepherd

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he will state the technical considerations which led him initially to condemn the flashing light indicator.

Mr. Molson

We never, in fact, condemned flashing light indicators but as, in all questions of this kind, there are arguments on both sides and it is necessary to weigh arguments on both sides before a final decision is taken.

Mr. Shepherd

Does not my hon. Friend think it strange to find his Department changing its mind about the flashing light indicator because, firstly, it was condemned by his predecessor in the House; and secondly, two motorists in Stockport were fined for using it? Does he not think the failure of his experts to appreciate the value of the flashing light indicator is a serious reflection on their competence?

Mr. Molson

My predecessor said in reply to a Question on 23rd June that there were a large number of technical objections—that was in fact the case—and that there were also a large number of arguments in favour of legalising this particular indicator. That is what is now being done.